M – Spoiler Free Review
M has its UK Premiere at Grimmfest 5th October 2024
Imagine a world where the bleakness of post-apocalyptic fiction crashes into the raw innocence of childhood adventure—that’s where M takes us. Directed by Vardan Tozija, this film drops viewers into a setting that’s as grim as it is hauntingly beautiful. In a world torn apart by a pandemic, young Marko must navigate dangers that lurk beyond the safety of the forest, where survival becomes both a game and a fight against all odds.
We follow Marko as he faces infected, feral threats—a familiar trope in the apocalypse genre—but it’s handled with a touch of hope and wonder that prevents it from descending into pure despair. The film is the slowest of slow burners, which adds to the idea that it is being viewed through the eyes of a child.
The cinematography plays a huge role in the movie’s atmosphere, with beautiful, naturally lit scenes that are as visually captivating as they are intimidating. Nature here is a double-edged sword: it’s a place of refuge but also isolation, highlighting Marko’s fragile connection to the world around him.
The heart of M lies in its performances, particularly the young actor Matej Sivakov playing Marko, he doesn’t say much with his mouth but conveys everything. There’s something raw and honest in his portrayal, Marko’s vulnerability and moments of wonder offer a poignant contrast to the desolation around him. The supporting cast, including those playing other survivors and the infected, provide depth to the post-apocalyptic landscape, showing the full range of what humanity might become when pushed to its limits.
M could stand for many things, Mundanity, Marko, Miko or maybe even Mental health. After the recent pandemic kept us all isolated, with the unknown, unseen threat of extinction over our heads, mental health issues increased exponentially. This film taps into the loneliness and mental anguish such isolation can cause.
As beautiful and poignant as it is, M isn’t without its flaws. The pacing at times can feel uneven, testing the patience of viewers craving a bit more oomph. But for those who appreciate a slow burn, this film’s meditative quality can be a strength rather than a drawback. It really ramps up about an hour in and I felt it could have done with a glimpse of that earlier on.
M feels like a mix of genres, a bit of horror with a touch of coming-of-age drama. The film never fully veers into gory horror territory, instead opting for an emotional tension that comes from Marko’s fear, built by his father, who has kept him locked away from the world.
M is a heartfelt exploration of survival and resilience that brings something a bit different to the apocalyptic genre.
For the first 45 minutes you’ll be wondering if it even is a post apocalyptic horror, or if it’s just going to be a dad who’s gone off grid and lost the plot.
If you like a mix of haunting beauty and emotional depth, M will stay with you, long after the credits roll.